Here's how it works:
* Unstable isotopes: Some atoms of an element have an unstable nucleus. This means the nucleus has an imbalance of protons and neutrons.
* Radioactive decay: To achieve stability, these unstable isotopes undergo radioactive decay. This involves the emission of particles (like alpha or beta particles) or energy (like gamma rays) from the nucleus.
* Transmutation: During radioactive decay, the nucleus of the atom can change, resulting in a different element being formed. For example, Carbon-14 decays into Nitrogen-14.
Key Points:
* Natural vs. Artificial: Radioactive decay can happen naturally in the environment, but it can also be induced artificially in labs.
* Half-life: Each radioactive isotope has a specific half-life, which is the time it takes for half of the original radioactive material to decay.
This process is fundamental to the evolution of the universe, powering stars and creating new elements over billions of years.
